1-888-8 PUEBLO (1-888-878-3256)
|
|
|
Home > Consumer Focus Archive |
|
Consumer Focus Archive Monthly in-depth news on an important consumer issue, product or service. Email us your questions or suggestions for
new topics. |
Most Recent Articles |
Finding a Job in
Tough Times
|
Tax Filing Year
2009
|
Web 2.0 in Plain
English (Part 2)
|
Cars -
Computers - Education - Employment - Family - Federal Programs - Food Health - Housing - Money - Small Business - Travel - And more... |
|
Cars
|
Buying a New Car - Cars take us to work, carry us to our social lives, and for many people cars reflect
their identity. Unfortunately, buying a car can also be extremely stressful. Consider these tips before shopping for
a new car.
|
Buying a Used Car - Sooner or later we all have to replace our old cars. This guide will give you some
things to consider when you are shopping for your new "used" car.
|
Car Ownership: Ways to Save
Cash, and Keep Your Car on the Road - These tips will put you "in the
driver's seat" before you take your place behind the wheel.
|
Changing Insurance
Needs - Insurance needs change over time and as your life changes -- from
the teen and college years to your senior years and the stages in between. Here are three common life stages
where insurance needs can differ significantly.
|
Winter Car
Maintenance - Have you been too busy to get your car ready for the winter?
Use these easy steps to "winterize" your vehicle and save money by performing some tasks
yourself.
|
Winter Driving - Do you know the difference between snow tires and regular tires? How should you
change your driving behavior in the event of ice or snow? Put yourself to the test by reading these tips on how to
handle your car and yourself in winter weather.
|
|
Computers
|
Accessing Local Services and
Information Using the Internet - Find out how to change your address, get a
new driver’s license, and more all using the Internet.
|
How to Find Reliable Health
Information - More and more consumers use the Internet to purchase
prescription drugs and other health products. Many of these websites are lawful businesses and offer privacy,
convenience, potential cost-savings, and other traditional safeguards. But, consumers need to be aware there
are some who are using the Internet as an outlet for products or practices that may be illegal or whose practices
may be questionable.
|
Medical Products On-
Line - The volume of health information available is overwhelming, and
searching for this information can be frustrating, confusing, and time consuming. These tips will help you get
started in your search for reliable health information.
|
Online Holiday
Shopping - Are you one of those folks hoping to avoid crowded malls during
the holiday season? Use these tips to help ensure that you'll have a happy and safe online shopping
experience.
|
Online Safety and
Privacy - Cyber security, phishing, worms, firewalls, Trojan horses,
hackers, and viruses seem to be in the news every day. But what does it all mean? Find out what can you do to
safeguard access to your computer and to protect yourself and your family.
|
Surfing Safely: Buying Drugs
Online - Even though you can compare prices and not wait hours for your
prescription, how do you know if the site you are on is legitimate? Can you trust an online
pharmacist?
|
Taking Steps to Protect Your
Privacy - Annoyed by having your mailbox filled with unsolicited mail and
credit card offers? Unfortunately, there's no sure-fire way to totally eliminate the unsolicited mailings, calls, and e-
mails you receive, but follow these tips to help you cut down on the junk.
|
Web 2.0 in Plain English (Part
1) - Web 2.0 is people interacting with the web (and each other) to create
sites and experiences that are meaningful to them. Learn more about it.
|
Web 2.0 in Plain English (Part
2) - We'll discuss two other major Web 2.0 developments - video-sharing
sites such as YouTube and "Wikis" such as Wikipedia.
|
|
Education
|
ABC's of Financial Aid - This information will help guide you through the process of applying for financial aid
and help prepare you for what happens after you graduate.
|
Back to School - Students are getting ready for the start of a new school year. As you prepare to send
your child to school arm yourself with some health and safety information.
|
Dollars and Sense for Sending
Your Child to College - As many parents learn, there are a lot of decisions
that extend beyond the classroom and selecting a major. Here are some tips to help you make smart decisions
that work for both you and your college student.
|
Helping Kids with
Homework - Here are some more tips and tools to help you and your child
get the most out of homework.
|
Safety for College
Students - Heading off to college? These tips will help you stay safe on
campus, as well as in the dorms. Also, learn how to protect yourself if you plan to study
abroad.
|
The 529 Plan and How It
Works - Anyone at any income level can put aside money tax-free for a child
or even himself for college. States and colleges offer different plans, so read on and explore the 529 plan
options available.
|
|
Employment
|
Being Your Own
Boss - If you’re exploring the idea of starting your own business, here’s
some helpful information to get started.
|
Federal Jobs-How to Find
Them and Apply Online - Looking for a government job? The Office of
Personnel Management (OPM), the Federal government's human resources manager, uses the Web to provide
information on jobs available worldwide. You can search for a job according to your education, where you live,
the agencies you're interested in, and more.
|
Finding a Job in Tough
Times - Sadly, the prospect of being unemployed or getting laid off these
days is higher than it's been in decades. If you are out of work, or know someone who is, these tips can
help.
|
Retirement Decisions—More
than Just Money - Financial planning is what most people think about when
planning retirement. But, have you considered what your lifestyle will be like after you retire? Here are some
ideas and resources to help you think about some ways to fill your time during one of the biggest transitions of
your life.
|
|
Family
|
Autism Spectrum
Disorders - Chances are you know of an autistic child, or a family adapting
to an autism diagnosis. Since the mid-1990s, parent advocacy groups, personal reports from family members,
and the autistic themselves have spoken out to put a public face on what has been a baffling
condition.
|
Beat the Heat: Tips for Summer
Survival - Tips, strategies, and loads of information that will help you survive
those energy-related challenges and keep you safe in the summer heat.
|
Caring for Your Pet - Every animal requires proper care and pet owners should be aware of any issues
that relate to their specific animal. Keep in mind that a little preventive care can go a long way to maintaining your
pet’s health.
|
Creating Your
Home Filing System - You've gotten your papers together in one place and
shredded those you no longer need. Now what? We've assembled some tips and with just a little planning on
your part, will make it all come together easily.
|
Final Arrangements - What would happen to your family if something should happen to you? For the peace
of mind of your loved ones, and maybe your own, right now is the right time to start making some decisions about
your final wishes in case you're seriously incapacitated or should die suddenly. Here are a few resources that
can help you get started.
|
Final Wishes - Death is a natural a part of life. Most of us find that the sorrow of saying goodbye to
loved ones prevents us from discussing our final wishes. Here are some items to consider before you sit down
with your loved ones. In part 2 find out how survivors can prepare to take part in the decision making and what
they’ll face after the passing.
|
Fiscal Fitness And Your Financial
Records - Resolve to get your financial health in order. Here are some tips
to tone up your record keeping skills and your bottom line.
|
Gardening-Getting Your
Green Thumb in Shape - Do you want beautiful tulips or daisies to line the
border of your home in the spring? Before you grab your wallet and make that trip to the nursery read these tips
to get you started.
|
Get Help From A
Professional - Hiring a financial planner, attorney or home contractor can be
daunting. Be prepared to do some research before you make a decision. A little time up front can save you a lot
of hassle and money in the long run.
|
Grandparents Raising
Grandchildren - Many older Americans approaching or in retirement find
themselves caring for or raising their grandchildren. Even if you're not the full-time caregiver, be prepared by
learning more about health, safety, and other important topics. Find out about the physical, emotional, and
financial adjustments you might need to make to support your grandchildren.
|
Holiday Safety - Use these holiday safety tips to help you enjoy winter sports, prevent toy-related
injuries, and keep your pets safe.
|
Managing
Household Records - These general guidelines will help you work out an
efficient system to manage
your household records. From creating an efficient home
filing system, performing
an annual financial
check-up and putting together that essential emergency
financial records kit you'll be sure to tone up your record
keeping skills and your bottom
line.
|
Moving from Analog to Digital
TV - Why is industry flipping the switch from analog to digital TV? Get the
answers to the important questions you need to ask today, so you can make the best choices for yourself or
your family before February, 2009.
|
Natural Disasters: Are You
Prepared? - Natural disasters come in many different forms and with
different intensities. Technology can predict some events and increase our warning time, but everyone needs to
do his or her part by preparing in advance. Preparing will also decrease your recovery time if a disaster strikes
where you live.
|
Online Holiday
Shopping - Are you one of those folks hoping to avoid crowded malls during
the holiday season? Use these tips to help ensure that you'll have a happy and safe online shopping
experience.
|
Preventing Holiday
Shopping Headaches - Many of us will spend more money than we intended
during the holidays. We’ve all felt panic standing in the middle of a crowded mall with only a few days (or hours)
left to find just the right gift. By using these tips and with a little care, planning, and budgeting, you’ll have a less
stressful holiday season.
|
Retirement Decisions—More
than Just Money - Financial planning is what most people think about when
planning retirement. But, have you considered what your lifestyle will be like after you retire? Here are some
ideas and resources to help you think about some ways to fill your time during one of the biggest transitions of
your life.
|
Summer Camp - This handy dandy guide will help you choose a summer camp for your child. And,
since summer camps aren't for every child, here are some other activities to keep children busy and help them
grow as individuals.
|
Surviving the
Holidays - There’s so much to do during the winter holidays – shopping,
mailing cards and gifts, cooking, baking, decorating, and more. Check out these quick tips to help you during the
holiday season.
|
Taking Steps to Protect Your
Privacy - Annoyed by having your mailbox filled with unsolicited mail and
credit card offers? Unfortunately, there's no sure-fire way to totally eliminate the unsolicited mailings, calls, and e-
mails you receive, but follow these tips to help you cut down on the junk.
|
Taking the Bite Out of
Summer - Warm weather brings ticks and mosquitoes. Reduce your risk with
these common sense approaches.
|
Talking to Your Kids About
Money - If you’d rather talk to your kids about the birds and the bees than
about money, here’s some information and tips that may make it easier for you.
|
Water Safety For
Swimmers - Swimming can be a great way to have fun while getting full
body exercise. But, you always have to remember that each year between 4,000 and 6,000 people drown in the
United States. Since tragic water accidents happen quickly, the following information can help everyone have a
safe and fun summer.
|
Water Safety For Water
Craft - For some people, water-craft is where the action’s at! If you love the
feeling of wind grabbing your sails or propellers shooting you across the waves use the following information to
stay safe.
|
|
Federal Programs
|
Are Your Health Records an
Open Book? - Did you know that currently, the health information you
provide your doctor doesn't necessarily stay in the office. It may be shared for many reasons and with many
people (other doctors and hospitals, pharmacies, insurance companies, schools, employers, data
clearinghouses, pharmaceutical companies, and even marketers). Learn about the Health Insurance Portability
and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and how to protect your health records from inappropriate
disclosure.
|
Democracy in
America - These easy facts and useful information are great to use to talk to
children about our country. Also, review the branches of the government and our election
process.
|
Federal Jobs-How to Find
Them and Apply Online - Looking for a government job? The Office of
Personnel Management (OPM), the Federal government's human resources manager, uses the Web to provide
information on jobs available worldwide. You can search for a job according to your education, where you live,
the agencies you're interested in, and more.
|
Medicare for Busy People
(Part 1) - While Medicare provides more than 43 million Americans with
health care assistance, the numerous benefits it offers can be a bewildering process to sort through. We'd like to
shed some light on how you or your loved ones can benefit from this program.
|
Medicare for Busy People
(Part 2) Medicare Part D - More than 31 million Americans use Medicare Part
D to cut down on medication costs, but there is a good deal of fine print to sort through. Here is a guide to
understanding prescription drug coverage.
|
The Facts on Government
Grants and Loans - We're all familiar with ads offering free money from the
government. The federal government does offer grants and loans, but the information you pay for may be
misleading. For complete and up-to-date information on these programs, go right to the source--the
government.
|
|
Food
|
Food Allergies - Allergies affect the lives of millions of people around the world. Fresh flowers or a
dog can make people itch, sneeze and scratch. But what about that peanut butter sandwich, glass of milk or fish
fillet? Learn more about food allergies and steps you can take to reduce your risk of food
allergens.
|
Food Safety - An estimated 76 million cases of foodborne disease occur each year in the United
States. The majority of these cases are mild and cause symptoms for only a day or two. Foodborne illness can
be prevented with proper food care – and this starts as soon as you select an item at the store. Then the food
must be carefully handled and stored at home. Here are some basic food handling tips and storage information
charts to help guide you.
|
Product Safety
Recalls - Not hearing about a product recall can have dangerous, even
deadly consequences. Learn what you can do so you don't miss these important
notices.
|
Sensible Eating Over the
Holidays - Eating perfectly is really difficult any time of the year, but
especially over the holidays. The key is not to overeat at parties, and to exercise restraint throughout the rest of
the week.
|
What You Need to Know
About Cholesterol - High blood cholesterol increases your risk for heart
disease – the number one killer in Americans. About 50% of American adults aged 20 years and older
have cholesterol levels that are higher than desirable.
|
|
Health
|
Are Your Health Records an
Open Book? - Did you know that currently, the health information you
provide your doctor doesn't necessarily stay in the office. It may be shared for many reasons and with many
people (other doctors and hospitals, pharmacies, insurance companies, schools, employers, data
clearinghouses, pharmaceutical companies, and even marketers). Learn about the Health Insurance Portability
and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and how to protect your health records from inappropriate
disclosure.
|
Autism Spectrum
Disorders - Chances are you know of an autistic child, or a family adapting
to an autism diagnosis. Since the mid-1990s, parent advocacy groups, personal reports from family members,
and the autistic themselves have spoken out to put a public face on what has been a baffling
condition.
|
Back to School - Students are getting ready for the start of a new school year. As you prepare to send
your child to school arm yourself with some health and safety information.
|
Beat the Heat: Tips for Summer
Survival - Tips, strategies, and loads of information that will help you survive
those energy-related challenges and keep you safe in the summer heat.
|
Breast Cancer
Awareness - After lung cancer, breast cancer is the second leading cause
of cancer deaths in women. In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we have brought together
some resources surrounding this health issue.
|
Diabetes - Diabetes is a serious disease characterized by high levels of blood glucose resulting
from defects in insulin production or insulin action. It is the leading cause of death in the U.S. Diabetes affects
over 18 million people.
|
Extreme Cold - Preparing
for Winter - With its cold and often stormy weather, winter presents a
number of safety and health challenges both indoors and out. Being prepared and following simple safety tips
can help you stay safe and warm this season.
|
Facts About
Depression - Some people think that depression is just a state of mind that
people can "snap out of" if they only try. Unfortunately, this is not true. Depression is a real illness and can affect
people of any age, race, ethnic or economic group.
|
How to Find Reliable Health
Information - More and more consumers use the Internet to purchase
prescription drugs and other health products. Many of these websites are lawful businesses and offer privacy,
convenience, potential cost-savings, and other traditional safeguards. But, consumers need to be aware there
are some who are using the Internet as an outlet for products or practices that may be illegal or whose practices
may be questionable.
|
Is It a Cold or the
Flu? - Colds and flu (also called "influenza") can occur anytime but appear
mostly in the fall and winter. How can you tell the difference? A cold tends to come on gradually but the flu hits
very fast and lasts longer. The symptoms for colds and flu can be similar; both can cause a stuffy nose, sore
throat, cough, and fever, but the flu can also leave you with a "wiped-out" feeling, a headache, chills and body
aches.
|
LASIK Eye Surgery - Is it Right
for You? - Tired of squinting at the alarm clock when you wake up in the
morning? Are your contacts a hassle to deal with everyday? Well, maybe Lasik eye surgery is for you. Click here
to find out great tips.
|
Medical Products On-
Line - The volume of health information available is overwhelming, and
searching for this information can be frustrating, confusing, and time consuming. These tips will help you get
started in your search for reliable health information.
|
Medicare for Busy People
(Part 1) - While Medicare provides more than 43 million Americans with
health care assistance, the numerous benefits it offers can be a bewildering process to sort through. We'd like to
shed some light on how you or your loved ones can benefit from this program.
|
Medicare for Busy People
(Part 2) Medicare Part D - More than 31 million Americans use Medicare Part
D to cut down on medication costs, but there is a good deal of fine print to sort through. Here is a guide to
understanding prescription drug coverage.
|
Men's Health - Affecting nearly 30% of the population, heart disease is the leading cause of death of
American males. Cancer accounts for about an additional 25 percent. Here are some helpful tips and resources
to inspire and inform you. We’ll talk about heart disease in this edition.
|
Osteoporosis - The Silent
Thief - Osteoporosis is a major health risk for 28 million Americans. It is
characterized by low bone mass resulting in weakening of the skeleton and an increased susceptibility to
fractures. Read on to find out risk factors, screening, and treatment options.
|
Personal Health Records - Keeping your own complete, updated, and easily accessible health record means you
play a more active role in your healthcare.
|
Product Safety
Recalls - Not hearing about a product recall can have dangerous, even
deadly consequences. Learn what you can do so you don't miss these important
notices.
|
Seasonal - Avian - Pandemic: Isn't
the Flu Just the Flu? - When is the flu just the flu? Learn the causes and
differences between seasonal, Avian and pandemic flu, and precautions you can
take.
|
Sports Health and
Safety - Sports are a good way to exercise and stay healthy and fit. To
make sure you can enjoy sports for a long time, you need to take care of yourself – and that means you need to
play it safe.
|
Summer Health
Tips - No matter what summertime activity you choose to participate in -
those hot and humid days can take a toll on you physically, as well as present some hidden dangers. Here are
some tips on how you can manage the heat and keep cool during the dog days of
summer.
|
Surfing Safely: Buying Drugs
Online - Even though you can compare prices and not wait hours for your
prescription, how do you know if the site you are on is legitimate? Can you trust an online
pharmacist?
|
Taking the Bite Out of
Summer - Warm weather brings ticks and mosquitoes. Reduce your risk with
these common sense approaches.
|
Vaccinations: Not Just for
Kids - Scientists use vaccines to "trick" the human immune system into
producing antibodies or immune cells that protect against disease-causing organisms. But keeping up with your
child's vaccinations can be confusing. To add to the confusion, medical developments have made changes over
time. Read on for more information.
|
Water Safety For
Swimmers - Swimming can be a great way to have fun while getting full
body exercise. But, you always have to remember that each year between 4,000 and 6,000 people drown in the
United States. Since tragic water accidents happen quickly, the following information can help everyone have a
safe and fun summer.
|
What Men Should Know
About Cancer - What are the most common form of cancer in the U.S. and
other cancers that have high mortality rates among American males?
|
What You Need to Know
About Cholesterol - High blood cholesterol increases your risk for heart
disease – the number one killer in Americans. About 50% of American adults aged 20 years and older
have cholesterol levels that are higher than desirable.
|
Women’s
Health - When it comes to health, there are many crucial differences
between men and women. Yet many women do not know that they are more vulnerable to some diseases and
may have different symptoms. Learn more about some of these health concerns.
|
|
Housing
|
Being a
Landlord - There are particular considerations to be aware of if you're
considering purchasing investment property or renting out a property that you currently own. The following
information should help make the decision a little easier.
|
Buying a Foreclosed
Home - Before you go out to the next courthouse auction to buy your next
home or dream of flipping that house for major profits, be sure to do your homework. We’ve compiled valuable
tips on navigating your options when buying a foreclosed home.
|
Changing Insurance
Needs - Insurance needs change over time and as your life changes -- from
the teen and college years to your senior years and the stages in between. Here are three common life stages
where insurance needs can differ significantly.
|
Choosing Home Mortgage
Products - Today's buyers increasingly turn to more non-traditional financing
options to make the dream of home ownership a reality. Reviewing the options can be a daunting and confusing
task. And, even though it may be tempting to decide quickly, consumers must consider all aspects of these loans
very carefully.
|
Heating Your
Home - Read these tips to learn how insulation, weatherization, and use of
Energy Star products can save you money. We also have advice what to do if you are having trouble paying
your energy bill.
|
Hiring A Mover - Research tells us that moving is usually one of the most stressful events in a person's
life. But with planning and care, you can make your move a lot less stressful. Here are some great tips for hiring
a moving company.
|
Home Buying
Basics - Although it may seem overwhelming at first, buying a home is a
process you’ll negotiate successfully as long as you know the steps to take and are informed about the choices
you face along the way.
|
Home
Maintenance - Homeowners decide to do home maintenance and repair
projects for various reasons. While some home repairs are quick and easy; others require extensive time, tools,
and talent. Whether you plan to do it yourself or get outside help, we’ve assembled some tips to help prevent
problems.
|
Indoor Home
Improvement - In addition to a standard "spring cleaning," here are some
other maintenance tasks you may wish to perform in your home.
|
Mortgage
Difficulties - If you bought or refinanced a home in the last few years, you
may be facing a major increase in your mortgage’s interest rate and monthly payments. Here are tips to help you
manage your payments and maintain ownership of your home.
|
Moving - There are so many things to do when you are moving. You need to let everyone know
your new address, gather boxes, get rid of items - just to name a few. Here are lots of helpful tips to make your
move easier.
|
Owning a Second Home
or Investment Property - The idea of owning a second home or investing in
property is on many people's minds nowadays. If you're interested in the idea, but not sure how to get started,
we've assembled some helpful information.
|
Purchasing
Appliances - With all the different home appliance manufacturers, models,
and features offered, it's hard to know where to start. And since appliances account for 20% of your home's
gas or electric bill, you have to consider energy efficiency as well. Read these tips before purchasing water
heaters, refrigerators, dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers, or cooking
appliances.
|
Spring Home
Maintenance - Every spring, daylight savings time gives us an extra hour of
light in the evening. Here are some home maintenance tips that you can use while enjoying that extra spring
sunshine.
|
|
Money
|
Changing Insurance
Needs - Insurance needs change over time and as your life changes -- from
the teen and college years to your senior years and the stages in between. Here are three common life stages
where insurance needs can differ significantly.
|
Consumers in Control: A New
Privacy Right - There is a law that requires financial institutions to tell their
customers about the kinds of information they collect about their customers and the types of businesses that may
be given the information. Read here to find out how to keep your personal information, well ...
personal.
|
Creating Your
Home Filing System - You've gotten your papers together in one place and
shredded those you no longer need. Now what? We've assembled some tips and with just a little planning on
your part, will make it all come together easily.
|
Don't Put Off a Personal Files
Check Up - Procrastinating too long, especially when it involves financial
matters, can lead to unpleasant consequences. Here are some tips to help you tame your financial paper
tiger.
|
Fiscal Fitness And Your Financial
Records - Resolve to get your financial health in order. Here are some tips
to tone up your record keeping skills and your bottom line.
|
Get Help From A
Professional - Hiring a financial planner, attorney or home contractor can be
daunting. Be prepared to do some research before you make a decision. A little time up front can save you a lot
of hassle and money in the long run.
|
How to File A Consumer
Complaint - When you have a problem with something you purchased, it is
often a daunting task to find out whom to contact to report and resolve the problem. But, filing a complaint doesn't
have to be intimidating; you simply need to know where to go. This guide will direct you to the resources for
dealing with consumer complaints, and give you some helpful tips to help you along the
way.
|
Identity Crisis? Protecting
Yourself Against Identity Theft - Get the latest information on how to protect
yourself and your good name. Learn what steps to take if someone has assumed your financial
identity.
|
Managing
Household Records - These general guidelines will help you work out an
efficient system to manage
your household records. From creating an efficient home
filing system, performing
an annual financial
check-up and putting together that essential emergency
financial records kit you'll be sure to tone up your record
keeping skills and your bottom
line.
|
Money and Credit
101 - Young people often find themselves in over their heads with credit
card debt, or in situations where they’ve been scammed out of money. Avoid these traps by following this advice
when you “shop” for credit cards, apartments, financial aid, and travel
opportunities.
|
Preparing An Emergency
Financial Records Kit - Disasters can affect anyone. Your number one
priority is making sure your family is safe, not finding your most recent copies of policies or bank statements.
Read on to learn how to prepare an emergency financial records kit.
|
Preventing Holiday
Shopping Headaches - Many of us will spend more money than we intended
during the holidays. We’ve all felt panic standing in the middle of a crowded mall with only a few days (or hours)
left to find just the right gift. By using these tips and with a little care, planning, and budgeting, you’ll have a less
stressful holiday season.
|
Reducing Unsolicited
Mailings, Telemarketing Calls, and Junk E-mail - Complaints of telemarketing
calls during dinner or mailboxes full of catalogs and credit card offers were a favorite topic of late night talk show
comedians. These days advances in technology make us concerned about protecting our
privacy.
|
Retirement Decisions—More
than Just Money - Financial planning is what most people think about when
planning retirement. But, have you considered what your lifestyle will be like after you retire? Here are some
ideas and resources to help you think about some ways to fill your time during one of the biggest transitions of
your life.
|
Retirement Saving Strategies for
Late Starters - If you think it’s too late to start saving for retirement, think
again. By setting some realistic goals and creating a plan, you can create a nest egg that can help you live a more
comfortable retirement.
|
Taking Steps to Protect Your
Privacy - Annoyed by having your mailbox filled with unsolicited mail and
credit card offers? Unfortunately, there's no sure-fire way to totally eliminate the unsolicited mailings, calls, and e-
mails you receive, but follow these tips to help you cut down on the junk.
|
Talking to Your Kids About
Money - If you’d rather talk to your kids about the birds and the bees than
about money, here’s some information and tips that may make it easier for you.
|
Tax Filing Year 2009 - The 2009 tax filing season is already gearing up. Here’s how to keep on top of
important updates, especially in this difficult financial period.
|
What’s a Trust? - Trusts can be appropriate for people with minor children or those who want to avoid
having their estate go through probate upon death. Here are some basic facts about trusts – but, be sure to
consult a licensed attorney experienced with trust matters before making any
decisions.
|
|
Small Business
|
Being a
Landlord - There are particular considerations to be aware of if you're
considering purchasing investment property or renting out a property that you currently own. The following
information should help make the decision a little easier.
|
Being Your Own
Boss - If you’re exploring the idea of starting your own business, here’s
some helpful information to get started.
|
Owning a Second Home
or Investment Property - The idea of owning a second home or investing in
property is on many people's minds nowadays. If you're interested in the idea, but not sure how to get started,
we've assembled some helpful information.
|
|
Travel
|
Planning a Trip
Abroad - If you haven’t traveled since early 2006, changes in transportation
airline safety regulations make it important to refresh yourself on what to pack, and what to leave behind. You'll
find information on passports, what to pack, important papers to take with you, and planning for
emergencies.
|
Safety for College
Students - Heading off to college? These tips will help you stay safe on
campus, as well as in the dorms. Also, learn how to protect yourself if you plan to study
abroad.
|
Time-Saving Tips for Summer
Travel - Some airlines have responded to escalating fuel prices with new
fees and some service reductions. Some airports have more customer-friendly checkpoints that can be time
savers-if you come to the airport prepared, know what to expect, and cooperate with security
personnel.
|
|
And more…
|
Final Arrangements - What would happen to your family if something should happen to you? For the peace
of mind of your loved ones, and maybe your own, right now is the right time to start making some decisions about
your final wishes in case you're seriously incapacitated or should die suddenly. Here are a few resources that
can help you get started.
|
Get Help From A
Professional - Hiring a financial planner, attorney or home contractor can be
daunting. Be prepared to do some research before you make a decision. A little time up front can save you a lot
of hassle and money in the long run.
|
Holiday Safety - Use these holiday safety tips to help you enjoy winter sports, prevent toy-related
injuries, and keep your pets safe.
|
How to File A Consumer
Complaint - When you have a problem with something you purchased, it is
often a daunting task to find out whom to contact to report and resolve the problem. But, filing a complaint doesn't
have to be intimidating; you simply need to know where to go. This guide will direct you to the resources for
dealing with consumer complaints, and give you some helpful tips to help you along the
way.
|
Managing
Household Records - These general guidelines will help you work out an
efficient system to manage
your household records. From creating an efficient home
filing system, performing
an annual financial
check-up and putting together that essential emergency
financial records kit you'll be sure to tone up your record
keeping skills and your bottom
line.
|
Moving from Analog to Digital
TV - Why is industry flipping the switch from analog to digital TV? Get the
answers to the important questions you need to ask today, so you can make the best choices for yourself or
your family before February, 2009.
|
Natural Disasters: Are You
Prepared? - Natural disasters come in many different forms and with
different intensities. Technology can predict some events and increase our warning time, but everyone needs to
do his or her part by preparing in advance. Preparing will also decrease your recovery time if a disaster strikes
where you live.
|
Preparing An Emergency
Financial Records Kit - Disasters can affect anyone. Your number one
priority is making sure your family is safe, not finding your most recent copies of policies or bank statements.
Read on to learn how to prepare an emergency financial records kit.
|
Product Safety
Recalls - Not hearing about a product recall can have dangerous, even
deadly consequences. Learn what you can do so you don't miss these important
notices.
|
Reducing Unsolicited
Mailings, Telemarketing Calls, and Junk E-mail - Complaints of telemarketing
calls during dinner or mailboxes full of catalogs and credit card offers were a favorite topic of late night talk show
comedians. These days advances in technology make us concerned about protecting our
privacy.
|
Retirement Decisions—More
than Just Money - Financial planning is what most people think about when
planning retirement. But, have you considered what your lifestyle will be like after you retire? Here are some
ideas and resources to help you think about some ways to fill your time during one of the biggest transitions of
your life.
|
Taking Steps to Protect Your
Privacy - Annoyed by having your mailbox filled with unsolicited mail and
credit card offers? Unfortunately, there's no sure-fire way to totally eliminate the unsolicited mailings, calls, and e-
mails you receive, but follow these tips to help you cut down on the junk.
|
|